Corporate history is filled with examples of failed merger deals--absolutely filled.

According to some estimates, the overall M&A failure rates are a staggering 60-80%. Notable examples from just the last decade include AOL/Time Warner, Daimler Benz/Chrysler and Alcatel/Lucent. The enterprise software industry, with its rapid consolidation, has had its fair share of failed attempts to realize operating synergies due to cultural misfits, ineffective post-merger execution, and a variety of other reasons.

SAP AG's $6.7B merger with Business Objects in October 2007 predictably generated a mixed response from industry experts. What are the chances that the fate of this merger will be different? What are the key factors that will determine its success?

The Wharton Club invites you to be part of a special event featuring John Schwarz, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SAP BusinessObjects. At this session, you will learn first-hand about the pre-merger strategic planning process and the operational challenges of merger execution.

Register Online
Date: Thursday, October 1, 2009
Time: 6:00pm-7:00pm Networking Reception & Registration. 7:00pm-8:15pm Program, Q&A
Location: SAP Labs Bldg, 3410 Hillview Ave, Palo Alto CA 94304
Cost: WCNC members, members of affiliate clubs and their accompanied guests: $20 per person. Non-member alumni and other guests: $40 per person. Registrations after 4:00pm Tuesday, September 29 an extra $10 per ticket, if available. Cancellations after 4:00pm Tuesday, September 29 at the discretion of the WCNC. No charge for Wharton Club Gold Ticket Members (but remember as always to register via the above 'Register Online' link.)


Reserve seats now for this limited-attendance event -- a high-level case discussion where you will hear first-hand what senior executives plan for when they make an acquisition of this magnitude!